Day Seventeen: Happy St. Patrick's day!

I hope you wore green today!!! If not, I hope you didn't get pinched. My whole family gladly wore green as we celebrated my husband's heritage. I would love to know  how you celebrated today. Please feel free to comment and share with me.

My Outfit

From the bottom: Gold cap toe shoes, brown tweed (like) pants, flowing green kimono blouse, gold dangle necklace, brown scarf, Celtic knot earrings.

I had high hopes of wearing a dress to church today, but the weather and lack of time this morning changed my mind. The same goes for wearing heels today!

The new things today that you haven't yet seen are the blouse and scarf, and Im unsure if I shared wear I got the jewelry and pants. The pants and blouse are Lane Byrant. Although the shirt is many season's old, it is still a favorite in my closet due to the kimono sleeves.Truthfully, I have no idea where the scarf came from. Its one of those things that get lost in your memory. I believe the necklace was Charlotte Russe and the earring are from Guy & Eva. If you have never seen their stuff you should check it out.

Shout Outs

After glancing though my favorite blogs to browse through I cam across some fun stuff like giveaways and links to a few stores. If you like designer sunglasses and eyewear, check out www.smartbuyglasses.com. If you would like to see a little more Guy & Eva jewelry you can check them out on Facebook. As always you can pick up many of my looks at Lane Bryant.

I hope you all had a great St. Patrick's day. Hopefully we will get to start discussing life lists tomorrow! I am so curious to find out what is on everyone's bucket list.

Day Sixteen: Looking Rough

I thought my outfit was alright this morning, but the pictures today make me think otherwise. The only good part about today's photo is you get to see one of my very handsome sons, Henry. Saturdays are lazy days, I usually don't wash my hair or wear make up. However, both the kids napped at the same time and free time came available, so I took it. It was very nice to have the time in silence while I showered. I still didn't wear any makeup, so if I do look rough, I apologize!

My Outfit

We celebrated St. Patrick's day as a family today, so I had to wear green. Searching through my closet, I now realize I need to buy more green clothing. The pickings were slim and I'm pretty sure my t-shirt had a tiny hole somewhere. Grr, its what I get for keeping clothes so long! It was also very hot, but I didn't realize that until I was already dressed. The weather lead me to wear two different styles through out the day.

The warm weather forced me to pull my hair out of my face so my scarf doubled as a hair bandanna. This picture does give a good view of my one of a kind earrings. These were another great craft fair find. The scarf is retro/vintage... rescued from toss aways.

 My green shirt is from Old Navy many, many seasons ago. My love for this t-shirt was obvious when I found the hole in it. My favorite part is the braid detail around the neckline and flowing sleeves. The jeans are Lane Bryant. The cutest accessory, the baby is all "AmanDrew" (my husband and I's collective nickname). As you can tell I left off my feet. That is because I didn't wear shoes for most of the day. When I did I wore my gold cap toe flats.

 I hope everyone has fun plans for St. Patrick's day tomorrow. Since my family celebrated early, I don't know what exactly we will be doing. Of course we will wear green again, but otherwise I haven't the slightest idea. If you have any good ideas for fun, fashion, or food for tomorrow, please leave a comment below. I want to know!

A Little Laugh
Check out this very funny movie I found today.

This guy has some rocking moves. You can find where I originally found this on Facebook.



Tomorrow starts a new week and a new additional weekly theme. I'm not really sure which direction to take, so here is another opportunity to share your thoughts. We may take a deeper look at my Life List which is located at the bottom of the blog. So, take a little time and read it over.

Day Fifteen: TGIF

Thank God it is Friday. No matter how long the work week is, Friday makes everything feel a little better. I'm also really excited about showing off my son and I's lunch from today.

*Our* Lunch

My son's lunch

Yum, yum... St Patrick's day has never been so tasty! I really think my bentos turned out well today. I lacked a lot of the cool supplies that would have made it easier.

my lunch

Notice how my son had a cute little leprechaun. The face is an open face sandwich made with bologna and swiss and cheddar cheese.I used peanut butter as glue so the candy would not move around as his lunch made its way to preschool. I also used the orange peel as colorful bowl for our "pot o' gold". Cheese puffs and oranges made up the extra gold and small cheese clovers were added as decoration.

If you have never made a bento before, I encourage you to experiment! You can get plenty of ideas on Pinterest. You can also look  here on my blog on day 8 & 9, and day 1.

My Outfit
It was dress down day again! I was also supposed to wear orange! I choose to wear something more on the coral side, but close enough. Im sure you have noticed several of the same shirts in different colors over the past two weeks. These are my go to blouses right now, but I promise to venture a little more as we finish up the final two weeks of this theme. 

From the top: gold drop necklace, coral 3/4 sleeve blouse, gold watch, jeans, gold toe brown shoes.

 I totally loved my hair today! The side pony worked beautifully and my curls stayed nice though most of the days. I apologize for not having any close ups today. My "photographer" was not available today. I will still share where to get the style.

My shirt is Lane Bryant. They are still available in lots of great colors. Like I mentioned in my wardrobe basics list, you should have at least three colored blouses to work with. The jeans are also Lane Bryant. I find they have a nice jeans in my size. Old navy is also a place you can order plus size jeans, they usually have a more affordable option. The necklace came from a "teen" store in the mall. Don't steer away from those store just because you have curves! I find the best jewelry and accessories that keep me looking fresh. The watch is Lane Bryant as well. If you have a wider wrist, you are in luck. All of Lane Bryant's bracelets account for that. The watch was adjustable to give me just the right fit. Last but not least are the shoes. Cap toe shoes are all the rage right now. If you have wide feet you still have several options. Lane Bryant (where I got mine), Woman Within, Roaman's, and many online retailers offer wide widths.

 *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I don't have a list of basics for today. As far as fashion and beauty goes, I think we have covered most of it. One day when we are on a different theme we may do basics in other areas. I wanted to remind my readers that I'm hoping to do "My Julia Project" next month on my blog. I hope to keep everything exciting by having a new theme monthly. So, if your looking to hear my thoughts on something, just let me know!

Today's Lesson From Kindergarten
To say goodbye this evening, let's take a lesson from Kindergarten music class. 
"Happy things are gonna happen... Happy things can happen to you!"   

Day Fourteen: Wish it was Friday

I'm so tired, it feels like it should be Friday! Plus, Friday's bring bento box lunches, weekend fun, and time with my kids. However, I promised a lot for today and I plan on delivering.


My Lunch
I promised I would do better today and I did. I love Japanese and Chinese food, so today I packed some beef and broccoli I made the night before. I also packed some caramel rice cakes to help me fufill my sweet tooth.

 I enjoy eating my Asian food in an authentic way. Ive grown rather skilled at eating with chopstick over my travels. If you cant tell, I even made brown rice!

Now, tomorrow's lunch will be much more fun. St. Patrick's day is on its way, so the meal is fitting. I also made my oldest son a special lunch as well. I may feature his tomorrow along with mine.

  My Outfit
I'm starting to experiment with my peices. After being inspired by other bloggers, I am now keenly aware of the fact that you can do so much more than we actually do with our wardrobe. I wore a dress, which I regretted. It was very chilly this morning and a dress doest protect you much from the weather.

From the bottom: Shiny black flats, sleeveless black dress, button down floral shirt, skinny belt, dangle earrings

 There is so much great detail in the dress I just had to show it off. The metal sequins grace the neckline and give the illusion of a chunky necklace. The also give some character to an otherwise plan dress. This dress was a lucky find at Kmart last summer.

The shirt is from Old Navy. If you were not already aware, Old Navy sells plus sizes on their website. This was purchased in store last spring.

I can thank JC Penny's for the lovely belt. It came with a skirt, but its starting to become a wardrobe basic for me. Skinny belts are also available at Old Navy and Lane Bryant. 

 

The earrings are one of a kind again. These I purchased while overseas in South Africa. You can find a variety of tribal inspired jewelry and many stores that carry costume jewelry.











Beauty and Health Basics
As I promised, here is my personal list of beauty and health basics. Some of these things are included because Im typically a DIY kind of gal, but if you enjoy the salon- go for it!

Beauty

• BB Cream- This doubles as health and beauty! Please check out my review of Garnier's BB cream on Day Six. 
• Mascara- I dont use waterproof because it is so hard to remove.
• A mascara brush- I cant stand spider eyes.
• Eyeliner- I use a shimmery white or silver liner to brighten my eyes. Plus, it removes the need for eyeshadow.
• Lip stick
• Lip balm/chapstick- Something that you can cover those beautiful lips with when your not wearing lipstick. I really like Soft Lips.
• Eye Make-up remover- No one wants to have raccoon eyes.
• OPI nail polish and top-base coat
• Emery, buffer, shiner nail file
• A basic nail kit

Health

• Multi-vitamin- Go ahead, take a chewy one. They are usually easier on your stomach anyway.
• Sally Hanson Wax kit
• Tweezers- Choose a pair with an angled tip.
• Oil Free face wash- I Like Garnier or Boire.
• A Scrunchie or loofah sponge
• Scented body wash- My favorites are Bath and Body Works Sensual Black Currant Vanilla and Classic Sun ripened raspberry
• Lotion- I also use the above scents in lotion as well.
• Floss- There is handy flossers on sticks to make the process easier.
• Toothpaste- For best results go for one with whitening
• Crest whitening strips- These are helpful when you want to get your smile brighter for a special occasion.
• Biore pore strips for nose and face- They do wonders on blackheads.
• BIC Soleil Razors- The higher the blade count the better shave you get. 

 I believe thats everything. If you can think of things you would add or I missed, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would enjoy hearing from you!

Day Thirteen: Updates and Announcements

As I stated in the title, I have several updates and announcement to cover today. Because of this there will  be a slight change of plans. There will be no "basics" listed today. They will of course resume tomorrow through the end of the week. The next list of basics will be health and beauty. So, be looking forward to that. Now onto my monthly theme today!

My Outfit

My first announcements come with this section! Im sure you are aware that I am no photographer and neither are the friendly people who help me take my photos. I recruited some help. My younger sister has a good eye for photography and she accepted the position of helping me bring you my fashion! Now, the food and often other pictures will still be taken by me and willing hands. Kailee did a great job today helping me give you a little better look at my wardrobe. You can follow Kailee on Twitter.

From the top: Blue dangle earrings, green lace camisole, flowing sheer shirt, black leggings, boots

I also realized that I haven't been sharing how you can get my style for yourself! What good is seeing fashion you cant steal?! From now on I will be revealing my secrets, and helping you get the same great look. Unfortunately not everything in my wardrobe is still available. I try to buy pieces I love and keep them for as many seasons as possible. All I can promise is basic idea and a little inspiration.

 The shirt is so old I cant even remember where I purchased it. You can usually find similar looks at Marshall's and Ross. The leggings are Lane Bryant, but I would suggest taking a more affordable route and buying those at Wal-mart.

The earrings are one of a kind. I bought these handmade earrings at a craft fair. Craft shows make a great plan to buy statement pieces that no one else will have!

The boots bellow are wide calf boots from Lane Bryant. Another good location to buy wide shoes and wide calf boots is Roaman's.






My Lunch
Im starting to see a pattern here. I need to eat healthier dinners so my lunches will be better! This high carb lunch is courtesy of fast food for dinner. I promise tomorrow's and Friday's will be better!

Don't do as I do, do as I wish. My hopes are to make a few special recipes I have posted on Pinterest. Check it out and help me do better by sharing your fast and tasty ideas below.

I look forward to sharing more basics with you tomorrow. I also hope to be sending out my giveaway at the end of the month. We are 19 followers away from posting the contest rules!

 

Day twelve: A Rainy Day

It was a rainy morning and nothing worked out quite the way I planned. By the time I got my picture taken I was in rough shape. So, if you think the picture is a bit off or my hair is a wreck, you know why! I had fun with my browns today. I mixed and matched several brown pieces to produce a complete ensemble.

My Outfit

From the top: Gold dangle earrings with small stone details, teal camisole, tan cable cardigan, and brown tweed dress slacks. Tan flats with gold cap toe.

 The details in this outfit pull it together, but the picture doesn't do that part justice. I just threw my hair back in a pony tail because of the rain, but I later took it down and enjoyed my curly waves. Unseen in the picture I also had on my gold watch. This outfit is comfortable and work friendly for a rainy spring day.

My Lunch

 Another shameful lunch today. Leftovers are the name of the game when you have kids and little time to prepare. The addition of the sweets comes from my basic lack of self-control. 

What can I say? Nothing beats cold pizza! I'm looking forward to a more complete and health conscious lunch at some point this week.

Mini Theme: Hair Basics

I had a hard time righting a basics list for all hair types and styles. Truthfully, I cant. My list of basics cover some products and brands I love, as well as some helpful hair styling supplies almost everyone can use. I have curly/wavy hair so MY products typically focus on anti-frizz and curl definition. Choose your battle and supply yourself appropriately.

• Shampoo AND Conditioner- I like using two separate products because it allows me to leave the conditioner in for a period of time before rinsing. I use Garnier Triple Moisture because they no longer make Curl and Shine.
• Hairspray- Again I use Garnier. In fact, unless I state otherwise, almost all my hair products are.
• Leave in Conditioner- This is especially important for curly, wavy, or frizzy hair.
• Hair gel, cream, or serum
• Hair pins- May I recommend basic bobby pins and Goodies simple styles twist pins. If your hair is long enough I also suggest Simple Styles Modern Updo.
• Any kind of no pull, metal free hair ties. I like to use ones in the same color as my hair to avoid distracting from my style.
• Hair claws- I like smaller ones and ones made for think hair.
• A hair brush with covered, protective bristles- If it hurts your head, its killing your hair.
• A large tooth comb- This is for detangling.
• Curling iron and straightening iron- Although I rarely use either, I think they are usually basics for most people.
• A hair dryer- Its bad for your hair, but if you use one be cautious. If you have curly/wavy hair use a diffuser.

Is there anything else you would add? Let me know, leave a comment below.

Attention!
Good news! If I get up to 20 (or more) followers before the end of this month's series, I will do a giveaway. I don't want to spoil the surprise for the winner, but the prize will be "a few of my favorite things"! So, I hope to be preparing a package for someone really soon.

 

Day Eleven: Double Whammy!

There is so much to cover today it makes me giddy! I'm very excited to share my outfit, lunch, and part of my mini theme for the week "The basics". We are covering a curvy lady's wardrobe basics a little further down on this post.I am also going to be trying a more clear, marked format for today's entry, so enjoy!

The beautiful sight I got to enjoy this morning.

                           

My Outfit

From the top: Matching Celtic knot dangle earrings and long chain necklace, kimono shrug, gold watch, black t-shirt, black dress pants, shiny black flats

 I got a ton of compliments on my wardrobe today. The kimono shrug is a real jewel in my wardrobe. I have a deep love for Asian inspired items and clothing. I also love to mix my global pieces, giving me the "world traveler" look. My hair was a flop today, but the messy do fit my eclectic look.

My Lunch

Talk about healthy! I did it up right today. A bacon and cheese biscuit and Swiss rolls, it seems I am well on my way to good health, right?! I know, I'm not proud of my selection either. Some days you have to go with convenience, rather than worrying too much. I believe its important to enjoy life and worry less.

A Curvy Gal's Guide to basics: Wardrobe
This is an all season, any style, list of basics. Addition of things I find essential to my style will be marked separately. 

First and foremost you need your basics in black:

• LBD- All women need a little black dress. If it fits you well and you feel good in it, its perfect.
• Basic T-shirt- Just because I say basic it doesn't mean boring, my favorite one has a great lace detail in the back.
• 2 purses- You should have at least two purses in black, a larger everyday one and a clutch.
• A blouse
• A pencil skirt- From business to a date, this will have keep your curves covered beautifully. 
• Dress pants
• High waist belt- This helps to slim and show off curves. 
• Camisole- Sometimes a little extra coverage is needed.
• Flats
• Heels- Make sure to keep these at a comfortable height. 

My basics in black:  

• Boots- Mine are heeled and slightly biker inspired.
• Sweater, blazer, or jacket- I have a great fake leather jacket I adore and I have my eye on a great blazer.

You also have to have your basics in denim:

• Dark Wash Jeans- The darker washes are more slimming. 
• Denim Shorts- These can be of any length, just not short-short.
• Denim Jacket- Mine is a long 3/4 sleeve trench style.
• Denim Skirt- I have a love for pencil skirts right now, so mine fits that category.

Then add some color:

• A basic brown or tan sweater
• 3 Well fitting blouses- My favorites have cowl neck which is slimming.
• 3 fun and colorful scarves
• A pair of sneakers
• A high waist brown belt.

My basics in color: 

• Brown sandles

Don't forget the necessary undergarments:

• Spanx- May I suggest both traditional and pantyhose?
• A well fitting bra
• White Camisole
• Comfortable underwear- If you don't like how you feel in it, it wont look sexy so forget about it!

Jewelry Basics:

• Pearls! Earrings and Necklaces- This is every woman's basic.
• A small pair of hoops
• A pair of gold dangle earings
• A silver pair of dangle earings
• A long necklace
• A right hand ring
• A watch

My Basics:

• Sunglasses- I like a large pair that protects me from the sun.

I also like to have all the basics in purple as well.

• A Purple camisole
• A Purple blouse
• A purple sweater or blazer
• A Purple t-shirt

Its also important to have a few things that sparkle! Most importantly, if you love it, wear it!                          

Tomorrow's entry will cover hair basics. Until then, enjoy!